The ATS-V was first introduced in 2014 as Cadillac’s effort to combat Bavaria’s well-known, exceedingly solid compact performance sedans and coupes. Unveiled at the LA Auto Show, the new V-Series was an expansion of the ATS line range and featured both a sedan and coupe. On the exterior, the ATS-V coupe features performance aspects such as a carbon fiber hood, widened fenders that accommodate wider wheels, a front splitter, and larger grill openings.
On the inside, a new 3.6 L Twin Turbo engine pumps out 464 horsepower and 445 foot-pounds of torque. High-Performance Brembo Brakes complete the package, as well as magnetic ride control, 25% chassis rigidity increase, and 51-49 weight distribution. Next to the CTS-V, the ATS-V was quickly making the name of its own on features alone, but how would it stack up to the competition?
The following year, Motortrend would compare the ATS-V to the BMW M3 and the Mercedes Benz C63 AMG. The American competitor would beat the Germans in 0-60, ¼ mile times, 60-0 braking, and figure 8 course.
Aftermarket support began for the 3.6 L Turbocharged engine as well, building the ATS-V into a 10-second car with the right modifications. Stage 1 tunes combined with downpipes and little else could make the ATS-V into a 500-horsepower car. Renick Performance in California built an ATS-V featuring 600 horsepower tuned on methanol, on 17 lbs. of boost from upgraded turbos.
Why did the ATS-V never catch on? Cadillac’s CTS-V was engrained as their premiere performance vehicle by consumers everywhere. Another reason, the M3 and even C63 retained too much of the market share for performance luxury coupes and sedans for Cadillac to truly break in. Now they remain as a performance bargain, and maybe you can continue on the ATS-V legacy today!